217 babies born in Gauteng public hospitals on Christmas Day, including to a 16-year-old mom

A total of 217 newborns were delivered at public health facilities across Gauteng during the first 12 hours of Christmas Day, including a baby born to a 16-year-old mother believed to be a victim of sexual abuse.

This was said by the Gauteng MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, said Thursday.

The figure, recorded from midnight to midday on December 25, marked a joyful start to the festive season for many families across the province, despite concerns raised by cases of teenage pregnancy.

Nkomo-Ralehoko was joined by City of Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, during a visit to Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital, where they welcomed the Christmas Day arrivals.

The two distributed baby essentials to new mothers, including wipes, nappies, bum cream, face cloths, backpacks, baby carriers, napkins and receiving blankets, to help give the newborns a healthy start in life.

During her visit, Nkomo-Ralehoko emphasised the importance of supporting new mothers as they begin their parenting journey. 

She highlighted the critical role of exclusive breastfeeding, which provides essential nutrients and strengthens the bond between mother and child.

She also urged parents to register their newborns with the Department of Home Affairs within 30 days of birth to secure their legal identity, which is necessary for accessing basic services. 

In addition, she stressed the importance of routine immunisation to protect infants from vaccine-preventable diseases.

“Christmas is a time for family, and as we celebrate these new births, we must also acknowledge the responsibilities that come with them,” Nkomo-Ralehoko said. 

“Investing in our children’s health today is an investment in the future of Gauteng.”

Addressing the challenge of teenage pregnancy, Nkomo-Ralehoko reiterated the provincial government’s commitment to working with schools, parents and community stakeholders to educate young people about the dangers of early sexual activity and to protect children from sexual abuse.

“Teenage pregnancy steals our children’s dreams and limits their opportunities,” she said. 

“As a province, we are working hand in hand with key stakeholders to educate young people and to protect them from exploitation.”

She added that the provincial government was partnering with the justice system to ensure that those who prey on minors face the full consequences of the law.

Nkomo-Ralehoko also called on communities to report cases of sexual abuse. 

“I appeal to every parent and community member to report any form of sexual abuse or adults who take advantage of children,” she said. 

“Keeping our children safe is a responsibility we all share,” she added, reflecting on the case involving the 16-year-old mother at Thelle Mogoerane Regional Hospital.

The Department of Health said a final update on the total number of Christmas Day births will be released on Friday, December 26, 2025, and will include data from all 24-hour clinics across the province.

IOL News